Step by Step Implant Placement Process

STEP 1: Consultation & Examination

The first stage involves fully understanding your exact needs. We do this by way of a Consultation. We want to understand what your preferences are and what you are trying to achieve with this type of dentistry.

We then carry out a highly detailed examination of your teeth, gums, smile and general mouth. This entails first getting a full medical history which is very important before we commence with surgical procedures like dental implants. We want to be prepared in case of any medical complications that may become a contra-indication to implant treatment. These days as long as your medical condition is stabilised and under control, there are not many cases which we cannot treat. Regardless, it is important we understand your full medical situation so that we can provide the best care possible.

We may also need to take some further records such as photographs and radiographs (X-rays) to help evaluate the condition of your teeth and mouth. In most cases, we will also need a CBCT scan – this provides us with 3D images of your jawbone. We need to evaluate the quantity and quality of your jawbone in the area we are considering dental implants.

We may choose to also take impressions of your mouth to construct study models so that we can assimilate your biting and chewing patterns on an articulator (an assimilator of your jaw joints). We can then create a wax up model that can show you what your teeth will end up looking like after the treatment.

Each case is unique and which records we take and at what stage is very much dependent upon the individual case. In most cases, we are working in close collaboration with your general dentist.

STEP 2: Implant Treatment PlanningOnce we have a better understanding of your mouth, we will then go ahead to discuss all the different choices and options you have available to you.

We specialise in customising your Treatment Plan to suit your specific requirements. Over the last 50 years improvements in innovations and technology of dental implants have meant that there are now numerous implant systems available of the market that all do slight varying things. Hence, this can create much confusion. Therefore, we pick and choose the most appropriate system for you that exhibits the most optimal compatibility for your specific case.

Our Treatment planning looks at both your functional requirements (chewing ability) and your aesthetic requirements. The design and placement of the particular implant system is based upon what we are trying to achieve.

STEP 3: Implant Surgery – Placement of Implant(s)

In a straightforward case this would be the stage in which we surgically place the implant in the jawbone. The dental implant procedure is dependent on the choice of implant system.

Thereafter, a “healing cap” is placed on top of the implant. This prevents the bone from migrating into the inside of the implant. Once the surgery is over the gum is replaced over the implant and jawbone. We will then need to wait for approximately 3-6 months for healing to occur.

You may or may not be fitted with a temporary denture or bridge at this stage. Best healing occurs with no loading (chewing forces) in this site.

STEP 4: Restoring the dental implant
After healing has occurred and the dental implant has integrated with the jawbone (osseointegration), impressions are taken to start the process of restoring the implant so that you can regain your chewing ability and aesthetics. The process will be dependent upon the specific restoration and prosthesis of choice as per your Treatment Plan.

STEP 5: Review & AftercareRegular reviews are important to maintain the health of your dental implant treatment. Routine hygiene appointments are also necessary to prevent any infection from affecting the treatment. More.